Photo Flash: First Look at UNCLE VANYA at Quintessence Theatre Group

Quintessence Theatre Group concludes its 7th season of progressive classic theatre with Anton Chekhov's Uncle Vanya, in the Philadelphia premiere of a new version by Annie Baker. All performances are at the Sedgwick Theater, 7137 Germantown Ave. in Mt. Airy, Philadelphia, 19119. BroadwayWorld has a first look at the cast in action below!

Uncle Vanya asks the question: What keeps a person alive? A celebrated professor has built a life and career from the profits of a rural farm run by Sonya, his daughter, and Vanya, his brother-in-law from a previous marriage. Returning to the family estate, the professor surprises all by announcing his intention to sell the property so that he and his beautiful young second wife can live more comfortably in the city. Can the different members of this complicated family and their friends survive the tedium of life without work? This classic Russian drama is part romance, part tragedy, part farce, and explores what is essential in the collective human struggle to progress and endure.

Chekhov has traditionally been perceived as an all-white "Masterpiece Theatre" kind of playwright. Quintessence strives to correct that perception in this -- its second -- contemporary exploration of Chekhov's work. Annie Baker, an award-winning and innovative American playwright known for pushing the boundaries of theatre and naturalism, has created a powerful American idiom for Chekhov's masterpiece, while remaining faithful to his original language and intent.

Steven Wright, one of Philadelphia's finest comedic actors (celebrated for his portrayal of Barack Obama at 1812 Productions and his Othello at Curio Theater), makes his Quintessence debut as Uncle Vanya. Also, making their Quintessence debuts are People's Light Ensemble member Kevin Bergan (Doctor Astrov) and award-winning actor and Temple University professor emeritus, Dan Kern (Serebryakov). They are joined by Jessica M. Johnson (Arden Theater's The Legend of Georgia McBride) as Sonya and Quintessence favorite Julia Frey (Quintessence's Three Musketeers and New Paradise Laboratories' Prom and 27) as Yelena. The ensemble also includes David Blatt as Telegin, Susan Chase as Marina, Rosalyn Jamal as Maria, and Daniel Ison as Yefim.

The production includes sets by Quintessence's Artistic Director Alexander Burns, lights by Helen Hayes Award winning designer John Burkland, costumes by Christina Lorraine Bullard, and an original musical score by Broadway actor and composer Randy Redd.

Uncle Vanya plays now through June 18. Post-show talkbacks with the cast and director will take place on Thursday, June 8 and Sunday, June 11. Please check the schedule online for exact performance times. Tickets are $27-$34 general admission, $25 for seniors (65 and over), $15 for students/youth (21 and under). To purchase tickets, visit www.QuintessenceTheatre.org or call 1.215.987.4450. For ticket information, email BoxOffice@QuintessenceTheatre.org.